Most types of dentures are made up of two main components: the “teeth” and the frame. The artificial teeth on dentures are typically made out of acrylic resin or porcelain. Porcelain artificial teeth give the most natural look and feel, but they also cause stress on the jaw and any remaining natural teeth due to their weight & strength. For this reason, acrylic resin has become the more popular choice in recent years for the artificial teeth on dentures. Acrylic resin teeth form a secure, chemical bond to the denture frame, making them strong and long lasting. Acrylic resin artificial teeth are also highly customizable, meaning that your dentist can sculpt them to be the same shape, size, and color of your natural teeth!

The frame, also referred to as a full or partial plate, is the portion of the dentures that the teeth attach to and are connected by. On some dentures, this is the portion that is made to look like your gums. Nowadays, the frame is most commonly made out of acrylic resin; the same material that most dentures’ artificial teeth are made of. Acrylic resin frames can be custom molded to fit the exact shape and specifications of your mouth, ensuring a tight, secure fit that can last for years and years!

Different Types Of Dentures

Full Dentures

Full dentures are used for patients that are missing all their teeth in the upper row, lower row, or both. A full denture for the upper row of teeth consists of an entire set of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored acrylic resin base that covers the roof of the mouth and gum line. A full denture for the lower row of teeth is horseshoe shaped and only covers the gumline, allowing the tongue to rest naturally.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are meant for patients that are missing a few consecutive teeth in the upper or lower row. These dentures are fully removable and are used as an alternative to dental bridges or dental implants, as they fill in the gap left by missing teeth in your smile.

Overdentures

Overdentures are meant for patients that are missing most, but not all, of their natural teeth. These dentures sit on top of the remaining natural teeth, which also support them. Overdentures can be fixed or removable depending on your preferences and a few other factors relating to the health of your teeth & gums.

Contact Gentle Dental Maine!

If you have any questions about dentures or are looking into a restorative dental procedure, contact Gentle Dental Maine! Our family dentists specialize in general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry services at each of our offices in South Portland, Biddeford, and Topsham. Give us a call at any one of our offices, or if you’re not yet a patient with us, please fill out the new patient form on our website!